Industrial Heat Exchanger Tanks

Shell and tube heat exchangers offer superior thermal efficiency, easy maintenance access, and proven reliability for high-pressure applications. They provide excellent heat transfer rates, can handle large temperature differentials, and are suitable for both liquid-to-liquid and gas-to-liquid heat exchange processes. The modular tube design allows for easy cleaning and replacement when needed.

Heat exchanger sizing depends on several critical factors: heat duty requirements, fluid flow rates, inlet and outlet temperatures, pressure drops, and physical space constraints. Our engineering team performs detailed thermal calculations using industry-standard software to optimize surface area, determine tube count, and select appropriate materials. We also consider fouling factors, safety margins, and future capacity requirements to ensure long-term performance.

For corrosive applications, we recommend stainless steel grades (316L, 321, 347), titanium alloys, or specialized materials like Hastelloy and Inconel depending on the specific corrosive environment. Carbon steel with protective coatings may be suitable for mild corrosion. Material selection considers pH levels, chloride content, temperature, and chemical compatibility. Our metallurgical engineers provide detailed material recommendations based on your specific process conditions.

Maintenance frequency depends on fluid characteristics, operating conditions, and fouling tendencies. Typically, inspection should occur every 6-12 months, with cleaning performed when thermal performance drops by 10-15% or pressure drop increases significantly. High-fouling applications may require quarterly cleaning, while clean services might extend to annual maintenance. We provide detailed maintenance schedules and procedures specific to your application and operating environment.

Operating limits depend on design codes, materials, and construction methods. ASME designed units typically handle pressures up to 6000 psi and temperatures up to 1500°F (815°C) with appropriate materials. Standard carbon steel units are limited to around 850°F (454°C), while stainless steel and exotic alloys extend temperature capabilities significantly. Our engineering team designs each unit with appropriate safety factors and can provide detailed pressure-temperature ratings for your specific application.

Efficiency optimization includes proper tube velocity design (3-8 ft/s), enhanced heat transfer surfaces, optimal baffle spacing, and anti-fouling coatings when applicable. Fouling prevention strategies include maintaining proper flow velocities, water treatment programs, regular monitoring, and designing removable tube bundles for easy cleaning. We can incorporate features like enlarged tube sheets, quick-opening closures, and cleaning ports to facilitate maintenance and maximize uptime.

Our heat exchangers are designed and manufactured to ASME Section VIII Division 1 & 2, GB 150-2011, EN 13445, and other international pressure vessel codes. We maintain ASME U-stamp certification, ISO 9001:2015 quality management, and can provide PED certification for European markets. All units undergo comprehensive quality control including material testing, welding inspection, hydrostatic testing, and complete documentation packages for regulatory compliance.

Standard heat exchanger delivery is typically 8-12 weeks from approved drawings, depending on size and complexity. Custom designs require additional 2-3 weeks for engineering and approval. Large or complex units may extend to 14-16 weeks. Expedited delivery is available for urgent projects. We provide detailed project schedules including engineering milestones, material procurement, fabrication phases, testing, and shipping arrangements to ensure on-time delivery for your project requirements.